Can you use coal in bbq for cooking only?

It's not recommended to use coal in a BBQ for cooking only. Here's why:

* High heat and unpredictable temperatures: Coal burns at a very high temperature and can be difficult to control, making it hard to maintain consistent heat for cooking. This can lead to uneven cooking and potentially burning your food.

* Smoke and ash: Coal produces a lot of smoke and ash, which can contaminate your food and make it taste bitter.

* Harmful chemicals: Coal contains harmful chemicals that can be released into the air and absorbed by your food.

* Difficulty in starting and controlling: Lighting coal can be tricky and time-consuming, and controlling its burn is challenging.

Instead of coal, you can use:

* Charcoal: This is the most common type of fuel for BBQs. It burns hotter and more evenly than coal and produces less smoke.

* Wood chips: These can be soaked in water and added to the coals to impart a smoky flavor to your food.

* Gas: Gas grills offer convenient and controllable heat, making them ideal for both direct and indirect cooking.

For best results, use charcoal designed specifically for BBQ cooking. It's generally safer, cleaner, and easier to control than coal.